Hearding Goats in High Heels........

2012-01-23T17:07:00.000-08:00

What a couple of weeks. It has been very busy and completely unexpected. The kids are doing well in school. Life is good in general. Then, Saturday. Alice fell off of our monkey bars in the backyard onto a piece of wood below. She was in terrible pain. We called 911 and they came to get her. She went to the hospital.

They put her in the most amazing hospital room we have ever seen. It had a projector screen on the wall with a circle above that changed color with the scene. It also had a flat screen TV with about 20 + movies.

It wasn't a fun journey but I had never seen a hospital room like this.

Alice had x rays and they checked her urine for kidney bruising. She ended up with a grapefruit size bruise. She also ended up with a sever bladder infection that is going to keep her home from school for a week.

It's ironic really, her staying home. It's really where I believe she should be. Home schooled. But, she loves her little class and they love her. Now after a decision to put her back into school and keep her there she is home sick?

Is it a sign? I don't know.

So, for this week she will be home. Getting better. Reading stories, playing with her dollies. Lovin her momma , as she calls me. Wow they just grow up too fast don't they?

Blessings

2012-01-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

The last 5 months have been interesting. They have been filled with more blessings than anything else. We had ana amzing fall, and amaing Christmas season. It was filled with love and family and friends.

New Year New Starts New Blog Name again......

2012-01-07T11:00:00.000-08:00

Last year around this time I think, I had a dream. I was in a vacant New York city. There were cobble stone streets and not a soul in sight. Then, a friend of mine showed up and told me that we had to heard these goats across the city. The catch was we HAD to wear high heels.

High Heels!!!!

So funny. I remember laughing and wondering what in the world?

The next time I saw her I shared this dream we had been in, she said,

"It's just like life, hearding goats in high heels......"

Brilliant!!!

So that is the new name of my blog. Because that is exactly what life is like! Going to college, getting married, having kids, and anything else you could possibly think of would fit into this catagory.

So here we go! Let's Heard Goats in High Heels together.

Hey

2011-09-27T17:03:00.000-07:00

Fall is in the air even in Florida. I felt a cool crisp breeze this afternoon. (Even as our power went off for an hour and a half in 85 degree weather :) But, we'll take it when the weather has been in the 90's every day.

Our 20th year anniversary is in 3 weeks. 20 YEARS wow!!! We have survived sooooooooo much!

Moving 10 times, 3 wonderful children , amazing family and friends. It is just a wonderful journey!

I hope that you are happy. I hope that you are healthy. I hope that at the moment life is all that you want it to be.

I hope!!!

Not Terribly Happy

2011-08-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

I am not soooo happy about the start of my sweet girls Kindergarten year. I would rather have her home. We will see. But she looks really cute this last week of school. Also her brother is in 9th grade. He is busy already. Plus, our oldest start college today. So we are off and running!!!!!

New Phases

2011-08-17T09:56:00.000-07:00

I haven't written in a long time. I just wasn't motivated. Now that there are so many transitions going on I feel I must. Our oldest goes to college, our middle son goes to high school, and our baby girl heads to kindergarten. After nearly 10 years of homeschooling I am lying it all down.

I need to figure out who I am outside of being a wife and mother. I need to go after some of my passions. One of them being blogging. My Etsy Store, and Ebay Stores and more! I want to learn to knit, I want to take a soap making class, I want to rest and just read by the pool. I intend to do them all. In between car pooling, doing home work and running our landscaping business.

I think that after almost 20 years of marriage, 3 kids such different ages and being almost 41, I have FINALLY realized that if no one takes care of Mom then the whole rhythm of life is off balance. So , it's time to take care of Momma.

I've missed being here. So to new phases and new chapters!!!!!

Oh and P.S.: I changed the name of my blog :)
When I was 5 we went to the Grand Canyon. We went to see and Indian Powow. But, when we got there we found out the Indians were on strike. Soooo, I guess even though I was only 5 I drew from my Cherokee heritage and went out and preformed for the entire crowd. I powwowed right on without missing a beat. So thus the nickname powwow princess.

Life is Hard

2011-05-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

Life is hard but small victories keep us going...... Praise the Lord!!!!

This Life We Live

2011-04-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

Just something I have been walking through. Thought I would share...

Our 2 younger children and I were members of the same home school group in basically two different forms for 5 years. 5 years! There were no offers for play dates, no hanging out unless it was organized by the entire group. It was and still is a bubble in this big world we live in.

For the longest time I was o.k. with it. I thought well it's not really big deal. We will do our thing and they can do theirs.

Then, after a while it it became very lonely. Our 14 year old son has 1 good friend. Which I know is golden, however it's really not fair. When I asked why these other children could not come to our house I was greeted with these answers. We don't know what our kids are going to be doing there. You watch T.V., you let your kids play video games, you listen to music we don't approve of.... On and on thoughts of insecurity and worry. It is not the way I want to raise our children.

If we shelter our children from everything what's going to happen when we let them go into the world?

It has left me angry and hurt. I have often felt like an outsider. BUT, not anymore. We showed up yesterday and today in that same group to have Caleb tested for 8th grade. Only the people I am friends with said hello. The other's literally turned their backs and ignored us. REALLY these are grown woman. I was unaware that this was an exclusive group.

Then, I felt the Lord impress something upon me. "They know not what they do for they are not happy in their own lives....." It was like a revelation. I am happy, I am grateful, I am proud of our lives and where we are in our walk with the Lord. Maybe this is the difference. I do not want to judge but it had never occurred to me before. So, I will walk away and hold our heads high. Maybe if I am meant to I'll whisper a prayer for them in hopes that God will soften my heart over this hurt. say of I am meant to because at this moment I am still angry.

I am releasing our children into the world of public school next year. Our oldest Andrew has done very well there. It all comes with little hiccups along the way but we will tread down this new path with hope. Hope that the lights that our children are will be reflective onto others. The compassion and love they have for life if contageous and maybe it will rub off. I know it has on me.

Only time will tell.

This is my life........

2011-03-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

I took this picture of my coffee table this afternoon in our main room. It pretty much sums up my life....... Remotes for T.V. and the Wii. (Movies from Netflix...), View master from my childhood, stocking cap from Steve, Jelly beans in box from Alice, Alice's leapfrog, hair bows, lolli, and water cup. Yup it's who we are and how our days really go....

I wouldn't have it any other way!!!!

It's a New Beginning

2011-03-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

Hello- I am going to switch up my blog. I am going to concentrate on my passions. Organizing, decorating, as my husband calls me "An American Shopping Picker." I want a new light hearted approach to things. I will be opening a LONG awaitied ETSY shop. I have many many many things that need new homes. So in the next few weeks I will begin. My new attitude and I are on a journey to have more joyful future. I hope you'll stick around to see what happens......

Posting

2011-01-05T06:54:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I have been wanting to post but have been sooooo busy. I will have to figure out how to show pictures from Christmas as I have lost my camera:( It got lost, thrown away or just plain misplaced in Indiana. So in the meantime I'll get back to this in a couple of days.

Happy New Year everyone!!!

New Hair Color

2010-12-08T10:37:00.000-08:00

I highlighted my hair. I thinks it's a little liter than I would have liked but I am too busy to fix it right now. I am just tired of gray and tired of brown. So, here's to a little spice. Happy Holidays.

Andrew's Senior Year

2010-12-04T09:26:00.000-08:00

Andrew's Senior Year: "Check out the fantastic photobook I created at Pixable.com"

Not Feeling Like Bloggin

2010-12-04T09:22:00.000-08:00

I havn't really felt like blogging lately. I am sure we all go through these times. I havn't had much to say. I am pondering changing my hair color, I am staying home a lot, I am looking forward to Christmas in Indiana with family, and I am enjoying our cool Florida winter at the moment. The sun is out and it is just beautiful! That's about it.

What are you up to?

Vacation

2010-11-17T09:35:00.000-08:00

I went on a trip again last week. It is the 3rd time this year I took the same drive. I went to pick up our middle son from my Dad and Mom. They took him up north for 5 weeks. He had a good time but, he was also VERY happy to come home. We visited friends in Murphy N.C. and were treated like royalty. I do not think I have ate that much bacon for breakfast in well never :) Then, we said goodbye and went to Southeast Atlanta. We visited friends of mine from my high school youth group. We had a blast!!! We went to the Coca a Cola factory, Stone Mt. and the best Farmer's Market have ever been to. Here are some pictures I uploaded because I didn't take a single photo.... We were having too much fun!

World of Coke

Farmers Market

Murphy NC

Stone Mountain

Jodi & Dave

What a blast!!!

Blake Mankin: I am Second

2010-11-03T07:04:00.000-07:00

Blake Mankin: I am Second

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-27T08:21:00.001-07:00

Customize a free slideshow

Fall

2010-10-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

I love Fall!!! It my favorite season. I just wish Florida's leaves fell with everyone else's. They Fall in the spring. But, there are sooo many freebees going on. I just love it. Today a local store is having a Fall Festival. So I'll take Alice and hopefully she'll have fun.

Happy Fall!!!

Senior Moments

2010-10-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

Our son Andrew is a senior in high school. He has been very tired lately and today while putting away dinner he put the pork chops in the pantry ?

FUNNY! He told me he was having a senior moment....

Cute!

Enya - Amarantine (video)

2010-10-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

Our Trip

2010-10-08T08:53:00.001-07:00

This digital slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Know My Own Strength

2010-10-02T06:25:00.000-07:00

This week has been very interesting. My husband Steve hurt his back at work. In order for us to go on vacation next week I had to take his place, Now for some this would be nor big deal. But......we own a Landscaping business in Florida. So I donned my work gear and headed out yesterday morning with our 13 year old Caleb and prepared for the worst. I just didn't know how we would do. Caleb had worked with his Dad but I had not mowed in years.

We got to our 1st job and there was a limb down. So we had to saw it out of the tree and lay it in the yard for later. Then we got to work. In 4 hours we finished 6 lawns! We were both amazed and tired. It was a nice day here. It stayed under 70 until 11:00. We came home to a very happy Steve and jumped into the pool.

Now we can go on vacation! We are paddeling down the Suwanee river for 2 days and hiking to Stephen Foster park another. We look forward to camping, hanging with friends and , now that the work is done

RELAXING!

I didn't know my own strength.......I am grateful!

Happy Birthday Sweet Isabel!!!

2010-10-01T04:15:00.000-07:00

Our niece turns "1" today!!!

We love you!

Beautiful by Mercy Me

2010-09-30T04:55:00.000-07:00

Savings!

2010-09-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

This is THE week for savings! I really made out at the grocery store and at my favorite clothes store! I saved....$252.00 at the grocery store. I have a freezer full of meat and the pantry is stocked. Then I got these following deals on clothes plus a whole lot more (7 more items to be exact) for $62.80. I save.....$402.87....!!!! Who hoooo!!!!

Please wait wait wait for the clearance racks. It will always pay off!

Lead me to the Cross - Hillsongs

2010-09-26T06:31:00.000-07:00

My Friend at "It's all Random" Shared this. I Agree!!!

2010-09-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

It's All Random

Ok so here's the deal. Katy Perry appeared on Sesame Street with Elmo and sang a child friendly variation of her song "Hot and Cold". A video of the appearance appeared on the Internet before the episode aired. Parents were apparently furious at Katy's dress and eventually got Sesame Street to decide not to air Katy's appearance. So here is my 2 cents. Yes Katy's dress was a little too low cut for a preschool show. HOWEVER, the producers DIDN'T see any problem with it themselves since they allowed her to wear it to begin with. I myself don't think that any child that is a fan of SESAME STREET AND ELMO are even paying attention to her dress whatsoever. Children are innocent. They aren't looking at Katy's breasts. These children are babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. They have more interest in the cute little puppets and the fun little song than the dress. My 7 month old nephew LOVES Sesame Street and even though he can't talk yet to answer this question himself, I am sure if you asked what he was looking at he would say ELMO. Some people need to realize that small kids don't think about things the way adults do. I remember watching Home Improvement when I was little because I was in love with the adorable boys on the show. When I watch it now, I understand all the adult jokes and sexual innuendos that are said. I didn't have a clue what anything meant when I watched this show when I was little because my mind didn't think that way. Just like children that watch Sesame Street don't think about Katy Perry's dress being too sexual. IDK just my opinion.

Saving Money is Always a Great Thing!!!

2010-09-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Still Here

2010-09-15T14:12:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week. It's also been strange how grief has caught me offguard. Everyday is better. I am grateful for our crew! Very grateful!!!

9 11

2010-09-11T06:49:00.001-07:00

9 Years ago today I was in Target after dropping the boys off at school. A guy ran out from behind the customer service counter and said"The Pentagon has been hit'! My Dad was working there at the time and I fell to the ground. The Target people had to pick me up and help me to a bench. Then, my good friend Debbie called me and said let me try to get through to your parents on a land line. About 5-6 minutes later she reached my mom. She said he was o.k. I was and am every grateful. But I am praying for our friends family that lost his life, as well as the many others that gave theirs also. Remembering 9-11.

Rain

2010-09-08T16:22:00.000-07:00

The rain is falling gently right now. I wonder if there's rain in heaven? I hope so. I love the way it sounds. I love the way it makes everything green. It sooths my heart and helps me reach a peaceful place. I hope it rains in heaven.

Grief

2010-09-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

Grief is a multi-faceted response to loss, particularly to the loss of someone or something to which a bond was formed. Although conventionally focused on the emotional response to loss, it also has physical, cognitive, behavioral, social, and philosophical dimensions. Common to human experience is the death of a loved one, whether it be a friend, family, or other companion. While the terms are often used interchangeably, bereavement often refers to the state of loss, and grief to the reaction to loss.

I am just getting through today. I have NEVER felt what I feel now before. We have experienced loss before. A Grandparent, an Aunt or Uncle. A national grief. But, this is a grief undefined. Ava was not my child, but we all loved her very much. We walked through a 2 month journey thinking about her and her family every day! My daughter played with her. Our son watched her at church. We prayed, we laughed, we just loved on them. Now she's gone to heaven. Although I know that she's in a better place we still suffer grief. Day by day, week by week it will get easier. I just hope that this experience , this unity of the body of Christ will continue on. Let us not have to have a tragedy to come together.

Let's love one another NOW!

Steven Curtis Chapman "Heaven Is The Face"

2010-09-07T08:11:00.000-07:00

2010-09-06T07:22:00.000-07:00

Sweet Ava

2010-09-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

Our sweet Ava has gone to be with Jesus. She was only 5. Please pray for her Dad Josh, Mom Lisa and older brother Noah. We will truly miss her.

Praying for a Miracle for Ava

2010-09-02T19:13:00.000-07:00

http://joshuajoelhunter.blogspot.com/2010/08/we-are-home.html

The focus of all our prayers at the moment :)

2010-08-30T04:59:00.000-07:00

If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together.. there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart.. I’ll always be with you.

-- Winnie the Pooh

It's a Hot Hot Hot Day!

2010-08-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

97 Degrees

It's HOT here in Florida! We started Football season and I think half of my water weight is still at the field. We go back at 5:00. At least we are the last game of the day. I started out in a tee and Capri's. I am now in a maybe not so kosher black sundress. Oh well. It's too hot to care.....

How's your weather ???

Hey

2010-08-26T11:04:00.000-07:00

Well I want to write about my life, but the everyday seems to run over the thoughts pertaining to the past. Right now I keep thinking HOW are we going to make it until the end of the month with the $50.00 bill sitting in front of me? That's all I have for groceries, gas and what not. I just think that it is a reality a lot of us face. So the beans in the pantry that can be cooked int he pressure cooker and / or slow cooker can be used, along with some other nifty ideas. God knows our needs. I just with there wasn't so much month left at the end of the money.

Let's Talk About Shoes

2010-08-24T16:22:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about shoes! I love shoes. My feet are the only thing onme that has not grown or changed since 6th grade. I know strange. I have worn the same size ( minus a change or two during pregnancy), this whole time. These are some of my favorites...

Just a few cuties!!!

Bloggin Journey

2010-08-22T10:39:00.000-07:00

I turned 40 on Friday. It was actually a very quiet turn. Our family had a surprise party for me last weekend. It was just very close family and friends. Then, Friday I went out to dinner with two of my best friends. We ate at a Turkish restaurant and it was really yummy.

I have decided that for the next few days or weeks, whatever it takes I am going to blog on how I earned my first 40 years. I think it's a God idea. They always come to me in the shower??? Anyway, I hope you'll come along. I feel that it's been an interesting and often trying but blessed journey.

Tomorrow chapter 1. I'll go as fast or as slow as I feel led. I am sure there will be some hiccups along the way. I am sure there will be some delays. But, I do know for sure that it is something I have always wanted to journal about. I pray for truthfulness and maybe some healing along the way.

Have a blessed Sunday.

Love ya!

Thank you!!!!

2010-08-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

What a difference a night of sleep makes!! This morning (minus the super weird dreams...) I feel refreshed and blessed. My great friend Linda gave Alice a TON of clothes last season and we now have super stylish and very functional end of summer, fall and winter wardrobe!!! It's been fun going through everything. Thank you my friend.

May you be blessed!

I Don't Know......

2010-08-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

Today has been a strange day. I have NOT felt like myself at all.... I do not know if it because I always have to fight the bank??? I don't know if it's because everywhere I went today SOMEONE argued with me??? I don't know if it's because I'll be 40 on Friday??? I don't know if it's because I haven't lost the WEIGHT I wanted to lose??? I don't know if it's because today I HATED all of my clothes??? I don't know if it's because my Parents and Brother and Sister in Law moved away???

I DON"T KNOW???

Peace During the Mayhem

2010-08-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

During the mayhem of the summer I have to find some quiet time to plan out this next years curriculum. I am planning to base it on the material I have received from my parents. They bought the entire middle school and high school set from "Answers in Genesis." Plus, in May I attended the Florida annual homeschooling convention and bought the rest of the curriculum to fill int he holes. I am excited however, I live in 3 different worlds with our children. Our oldest is a Senior in public school. It just fits him. He is HIGHLY motivated and loves all of the teachers. Our middle on is home schooled. Our little Alice will go to free preschool this year for 4 hours a day while I train up our 8th grader in the way he should go. Plus, add in Football and youth groups and we are packed for the Fall!

Now just to find those quite moments........Maybe at midnight???

Moving and Grooving

2010-08-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

These last few weeks have been sooo busy! The beginning of the summer was slow. I should have relished more int he peacefulness of it all! But, we have been moving the family. Thus, we have inherited 4 rooms of furniture. I have 1 of those rooms set up already. Now to work on the 2 boys rooms. I have to sell this bed before I can work on our middle sons room.

Hoping it will go soon. Today we start to pack the truck with my Brother and Sister In Laws house. The next 3 days will be V E R Y hectic. So I am hoping for grace and peace with the process. This is when families can lose it. But, I know that God is more than capable of keeping the peace.

Have a Happy Thursday everyone!!!

Hello

2010-08-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

Well everyone the last 2 weeks have been a whirlwind! We are currently in Indiana. I am taking a much needed computer break. My parents do not have internet in the new house yet. I'll post pictures when I get home. (That is if I have a computer. Mine died right before I left :( ) We go back Sat. for a 22 hour trip over 2 days toFlorida. NOT my idea of fun. But, it is all for a good reason. My father and mother moved back to my Dad's hometown. We got to visit Purdue University for our senior, we have helped them start to move in, and we are inheriting almost 3 whole rooms of furniture. Now to go home sell what we do not need and move in the new to us furniture. New bedrooms for the boys, a new dining set for our eating area, and new bedroom set for hubby and me:)

So howdie to all you new followers. I am honored! I hope you'll enjoy the ride through this Semi Normal Life.....

Love,

Jenn

Off an Running

2010-07-24T05:57:00.000-07:00

Our uneventful summer just turned wayyyyy busy. Last night we helped our friends move. Tomorrow we leave for Georgia to move my parents out of their house there. They are moving , hopefully one last time, to Northern Indiana where my Dad is from. Luckily they are fairly young and both in good health. My Dad is 67 and my Mom is 62. They have traveled all over the world and are now ready to settle once and for all. It should be a fun time as well as having to work. I haven't been up there in quite a few years. Plus family will come to us to visit. It is just a long way from here. We won't see them as much.

Then, we come home and move 2 more houses. I am just praising the Lord daily that we are NOT moving this year and hopefully not the next either.

Jenn

Participate in the First Friendly Wednesday!

2010-07-21T06:21:00.001-07:00

Feeding Four is doing the 1st friendly wednesday! Come along!

Frustration

2010-07-15T06:12:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the strangest thing happen. A mother of one of our boys friends called me to ask a question. She needed some information about a certain topic. Once that topic was through she started commenting on her children. She has two boys that are both friends with my boys. During one point of the conversation she called one of her children a name. I stopped her from continuing and said to her that I didn't feel that was very nice. She immediately took offence and it was off and running. The problem with the whole conversation is that she was not herself and had been drinking. There was no reasoning with her so I chose to end the conversation. All I kept saying was I found her name calling offensive. Instead of just letting it go a almost 3 hour confrontation ensued with me continuing to just say the same thing over and over until I refused to answer her any longer. This is a person that never calls me. She won't even pick up the phone when I call her. She gets back to me when she has time. The whole thing has just made me sad. Her younger son is our youngest son's best friend. Hopefully this will not change that, but I do not want our boys at her house any longer. Not a fun situation.However, I do not think I would change a thing. A mother putting her children down to someone else is terribly uncalled for. I 'm not perfect by any means. But, this really bothers me.

Busy Busy Busy

2010-07-12T06:02:00.000-07:00

Life here is REALLY busy!!!Saturday we had our church's service day. It is called NICE SERVE and over 1000 people came out if you can think of it they did it. Painted, cleaned, sorted clothes, food and such at local food banks, mowed yards, cut down trees. Our middle son and I helped feed those 1000 hungry people with a team of about 15 of us. A local bar b que restaurant that everyone loves, and they go to our church, donated food. It was amazing!

Our oldest son is in the Dominican Republic on a mission trip and having a great time. They are cleaning, and restocking the mission teams schools. The group is staying at a COTN mission down. They will be very busy over the next few days also.

My parents arrived last night to clean out my Grandparents house that just sold. The closing is soon. It's been a long time coming. In some ways it's great. It closes a door that needed to be closed. But, I'll miss the property.

My parents are also moving from Ga. to Indiana so that is the second move to handle. I am unable to help with that one. But, our sons will travel north to do what they can. My father is from Culver Indiana and they have decided to settle once and for all in his hometown. It's a wonderful place around a beautiful lake with a military academy on the edge. It is Culver Military academy. My Father went there and my Grandfather taught German and swimming there for 41 years. I think my Grandparents would be very pleased, if they were alive, that he was returning. It's a wonderful place to spend summers. I am sure we will be there a lot.

Culver Military Academy

Lake

So this Thursday - Saturday is yard sale extraordinaire. There will be 3 families items available. If you are in the area please stop by. Our son will be selling waters and soft drinks. Should be a fun family affair.

Hope every one's summer is going well.

Life is Busy

2010-07-08T06:55:00.000-07:00

Boy life is a lot busier than I thought it would be this summer. We are not going anywhere but there seems to be something to do most days. Church volunteering, working out at the Y, play dates with friends, birthday parties, business stuff..... It has kept me running! Today I plan to get to the bank, and lay out by the pool at some point.

Tomorrow our oldest son leaves for a mission trip. It's hard to believe he is going to be out of the country. But, we hope it is an experience that changes his life forever.....

Hope you are having a super summer so far!

Terry Redlin's America the Beautiful

2010-07-04T06:36:00.000-07:00

What I Did Today

2010-06-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

The "Monster" that has Attacked a Friend's Daughter

2010-06-30T06:11:00.000-07:00

This is a picture and definition of a cancer that has attacked our friends little girl. It's a "monster" as her father is calling it! Please pray for her. Her name is AVA.

She is 5 1/2 years old. Friday she was o.k. as far as they knew and now she's been through surgery. They are hoping for the best. Please please please pray!!!

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and most aggressive type of primary brain tumor in humans, involving glial cells and accounting for 52% of all parenchymal brain tumor cases and 20% of all intracranial tumors. Despite being the most prevalent form of primary brain tumor, GBMs occur in only 2–3 cases per 100,000 people in Europe and North America. According to the WHO classification of the tumors of the central nervous system‎, the standard name for this brain tumor is "glioblastoma"; it presents two variants: giant cell glioblastoma and gliosarcoma. Glioblastomas are also an important brain tumor of the canine, and research is ongoing to use this as a model for developing treatments in humans.[1] Treatment can involve chemotherapy, radiation, radiosurgery, corticosteroids, antiangiogenic therapy, and surgery. [2]

Glioblastoma has a very poor prognosis, despite multimodality treatment consisting of open craniotomy with surgical resection of as much of the tumor as possible, followed by concurrent or sequential chemoradiotherapy, antiangiogenic therapy with bevacizumab, gamma knife radiosurgery, and symptomatic care with corticosteroids. Other than the brainstem gliomas, it has the worst prognosis of any CNS malignancy.

We come against this in the name of JESUS!!!!!! Satan has no foothold here!!! Please agree with me.

2010-06-22T07:07:00.001-07:00

This slideshow design made with Smilebox

2010-06-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

WHATS YOUR STYLE IN ONE PICTURE?

I love this room and all of the color. I love the bright light coming from the windows.....

You are next. Click on the title and share your favorite room!

Thankfulness

2010-06-18T06:17:00.000-07:00

6. I am thankful that every single time there is a bill to pay GOD comes through! Every single time!

7. I am thankful that it is summer and we have a pool!!!

8. I am thankful for a beautiful house, that even though we lost ours 2 years ago GOD provided His best and more...(THE nicest house we have every lived in and our owners are NOT raising our rent for the 3rd year. Plus, they fix everything!)

9. I and thankful for waterproof mascara.

10. I am thankful for a closet full of fun and funky clothes....

Happy Friday!

Summer

2010-06-15T15:50:00.000-07:00

I guess I had to settle into summer this year. I am NOT a hot weather girl! Today it was 105 in Orlando. Sooo hot you could see the heat coming off of the roads. We went to the Y pool to get a change of scenery and we only lasted and hour. But there is a nice rhythm to summer. Lazy mornings, no plans, reading magazines and books. It's almost as if you have to give yourself permission to relax. We have not planned a big trip this summer but so our vacation will be a stay-cation . Watching movies, eating too much popcorn, laughing a lot. It'll be a great summer!

Addison Road "Hope Now" Music Video

2010-06-13T05:54:00.000-07:00

Beauties

2010-06-12T13:57:00.001-07:00

I needed a pick me up so I bought these beauties from Etsy. Just sooo pretty!

A Little Better

2010-06-12T11:04:00.000-07:00

Today things are a little better. I am tired though. Maybe after church tomorrow I'll be perked up. We'll see. For now I am going to catch up on the pile of magazines I want to get to.

Happy Saturday!

Not Myself

2010-06-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

Howdie all- I need to write for a few minutes maybe I'll feel better. I just have not felt like myself lately. I have not wanted to get up and get ready int he morning. I have not wanted to go anywhere, I have not wanted to cook or clean or anything! I think I am depressed. I have been a few times in my life. Post partum depression being the worst! The summer is here and we are not going anywhere, we have no way to go and do many things, I am just sad. I would like to feel that is alright to be this way for a little while but it really is a bummer. So today just for kicks I did my hair, painted my nails and got ready for the day even though I feel at this moment it's a waste of good makeup and hairspray. We'll see what the rest of the day holds. Hopefully I'll feel better as I go along. Happy Friday. Whoo hoo....:(

Sunday Stealing

2010-06-07T06:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday Stealing

1) It's 2 am and you aren't home. What are you doing? I am on vacation or something has happened and we are in the ER.

2) What's the last thing you spent more than a $100 on? Home School Convention. Books for next year.

3) What do your bank checks look like? Beige with sails

4) Where did the shirt you are currently wearing come from? Lane Bryant

5) Name something that will be on your Christmas wish list: A trip to Indiana

6) What color is your toothbrush? Purple

7) Name something you collect and tell us about it: I have a lot of unintentional collections. Tea Pots, Tea Cups, Trinket boxes, Aluminum platters & Coasters, Candle Sticks and Oriental Dishes.

8) Last restaurant you ate at. Who were you with and how was it? El Tu Tu Tango, with my BFF Melissa, Having Mexican and other foods... It was good.

9) Who was the last person you bought a birthday card for? Matt our neighbors son that just Graduated.

10) What is your worst bad habit? Gritting my teeth while sleeping. Very sore jaws in the morn.

11) Name a magazine you subscribe to: Real Simple

12) Your favorite pizza toppings? Cheese, Bacon, Peppers, Onions....I love it all!

13) Whose number were you looking up the last time you used a phone book? What's a phone book :)

14) Other than family, who is the person you love the most? My friends Melissa

15) What is the last thing you cooked? Broiled cod with cannelloni beans, steamed muscles, and rolls.

16) Name something you wouldn't want to buy used: Underclothes

17) Which shoe do you put on first? Left

18) What is the last thing you remember losing? I always misplace things around the house. Truth is I put stuff aways too fast.

19) What is the ugliest piece of furniture in your house? Right now there isn't anything I don't like.

20) Last thing you bought and ended up returning? I can't remember

21) What perfume do you wear? If none, why? I wear different one's for different moods. Sunflowers, Green Tea, Princess, and Eternity.

22) Your favorite board game? Scene it.

23) What was the last board game you played? Find the Kitty

24) Where did your vehicle come from? My Grandparents gave it to my Dad and then my Dad gave it to us.

25) If a movie was made about your life what would your theme song be? There is a song by Carly Simon that I just love. Close your Eyes.

26) You're sad, who can cheer you up easily? My children & my friends

27) What was the color of the bridesmaids dresses at the last wedding you went to? I haven't been to a wedding in years so I do not know?

28) What house cleaning chore do you hate to do the most? The Bathroom and any floors.

29) What is your favorite way to eat chicken? Marinated in Teriyaki sauce and then cooked on the grill.

30) It is your birthday. You hope the cake is? Ice Cream Cake!

2 Small Beefs to Pick

2010-06-03T06:41:00.000-07:00

I really do not want to be a complainer but I could talk all day about the people that confront me on a regular basis. I do not know if I have "Magnet for Confrontation" across my forehead or what? It happens all of the time and although I laugh it off, it's really NOT funny. The conversation yesterday was in my local grocery store. A lady beside me wanted to know :

"WHY ARE YOU BUYING ORGANIC MEAT? What's so great about it, she insisted....!!!"

I told her I have been convicted lately, partly because of a movie I watched, partly because I have always known, that it's just better for you. I have 3 children and my husband and I want to make a change. But, she stood there pecking at me until I said this. "It is my business what I CHOOSE to buy. If you'd like to pay my grocery bill than you can say all you want to. Until then please leave me alone."

This is NOT an isolated incident. It happens to me almost every time I go out. The ironic thing I do not often talk to them first. So I am going to make a button that says the greatest thing my Dad ever taught me.

"TO EACH HIS/HER OWN!!!"
Now I know , I know this can't pertain to everything in life. But, it can let people know that they need to think before they speak. (Me included.)

The other issue I have is:
"WHY ARE SOOO MANY FASHIONS DESIGNED FOR REALLY SMALL PEOPLE???"
(I know nothing to do with the last issue.)

We just joined the YMCA and I know that I will lose weight. But, on the way I'd like to wear cute clothes that show off my personality. I am a size 14/16. Sometimes a 18/20. It all depends on how things are made. But, I am o.k. with it. I look just like the women in my family. We are strong and independent. We know who we are in Christ, and we are proud of it! I would like to tell the designers of the world to take a chance. If you make it in our size we may buy it. Besides when I lose weight I have one part of me that doesn't change. I need clothes to fit that part too......So anyway.......

I hope you have a super Thursday! I know we will.

PLanning for the Year

2010-06-01T06:23:00.000-07:00

O.K. now that I have all but our math materials for next year I have to plan a curriculum. So in the next few days, before my high schooler gets out of school and the house is super busy, I will be taking everything out and placing it in front of me to plan. I have the entire bookstore of resources from the creation museum in Kentucky, I have Total Language Plus a literary program, I have Grade 8 Wordly Wise Vocabulary, I have 5 Finger Paragraph for writing, I also have a money management course, I have to get the math , and I have a great Middle Schooler Planner! Plus, all of the books to read and more..... I really could use a weekend just to do this. But, I pride myself on getting things done no matter what goes on around me. So for this amazing son of mine's 8th grade year we should be off and running. I really feel that it will be fun and exciting. Happy Tuesday!

National Anthem USA

2010-05-31T12:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who have served and all that are serving now!!!

Home School Convention

2010-05-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

Hello all. I just went to the Florida Parent's Educator's Association yearly conference. I went with my dearest friend Missy. We had a very nice time. She is the kind of friend that everyone should have! Here are some highlights of the 3 days in pictures. Enjoy!

The Rosen Shingle Creek

Our Room

1 Pool of 4

Room View of Property

If I played golf!!!

Dinner Friday Evening......

Amy Grant - Better Than a Hallelujah

2010-05-27T05:51:00.000-07:00

Home Schooling

2010-05-25T08:49:00.000-07:00

They are why I stay home. They are why I do what I do!

I have had the privilege to home school our children for almost 9 years now. (I will tell you though that our oldest is in school. He is one of the few that can completely get everything out of school that he can.)There are moments when I wonder why I chose this incredibly demanding odyssey and then I look at our public school system. It infuriates me that we are one of the richest countries in the world and yet, we cannot fund a properly executed school system. There is crime galore. If you are blessed enough to live in a rural area maybe you have a better chance of things working out for you. Orlando is a rough area. Our schools on average are quite behind other parts of the country. We shouldn't be but I remember several people telling me that after home schooling they'd put there kids in school and they were able to skip entire grades. These are the practical reasons I home school.

Here are the spiritual one's:

Prayer : We can pray at home. We can honor our Lord and no one, as of yet can tell us not too.

Family time: We get to watch our children learn and grow. There is nothing more exciting than to be there when they grasp a concept, learn to read or are successful at a math problem.

Freedom: We can work 1 hour, 4 hours or not at all and skip the day for a field trip because everything is learning. Everything counts.

Work through problems without medication: I am not against medication, but I will not have a teacher or guidance councilor tell me that if I do not medicate my child then they will not teach them! YES this really happened.

Life in general: We know what they are learning, when they are learning it, what games they are playing , how they are talking, whom they are talking with. Sound a little communistic. Yes I agree. No one ever told me that parenting had to be a democracy. The parent always wins in this house.

James Dobson once said 2 amazing things that I remember every day.

1. Does this matter eternally? Pick your battle wisely.

2. When they go to bed at night what condition is there heart in? When they stand before God one day he will not say to us did they conquer the 5 paragraph essay? He will say how is their heart?

I love to home school. I will be taking our children all the way through as far as we can.

I hope that more and more people will embrace bringing their children home. It is something that you will never regret doing!

Buy and Sell Beautiful Handmade - Lovely Clusters

2010-05-24T06:06:00.000-07:00

Buy and Sell Beautiful Handmade - Lovely Clusters

It's amazing what kids can do!

2010-05-20T06:21:00.001-07:00

Make a digital scrapbooking design

"Be Kind to Animals Week"

2010-05-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

Bonnie @ "Celebrate the Journey" had this on her blog and I had to copy it! Enjoy!

33 Ways To Be Kind To Animals

1. Never leave your pet alone in a car

2. Spay or neuter your cat or dog

3. Adopt pets from an animal shelter or rescue group

4. Spend quality time with your pet

5. Use a non-choking collar on your dog or cat

6. Provide nutritious food and constant fresh water for your pets

7. Keep chocolate away from your pets. It can poison them.

8. Keep pets away from toxic household chemicals.

9. Make sure they always wears up-to-date ID tags.

10. Read books as a family about animal care

11. Take pets for annual health exams and recommended vaccines and/or titer counts.

12. Only provide toys approved for their use.

13. Quit smoking; secondhand smoke can cause allergies in aniamls

14. Provide pets with plenty of exercise.

15. Make sure they have constant access to shade in the summer, heat in the winter and a place that's always dry.

16. Brush your dog's and cat's teeth.

17. Groom your pet often; daily for longhaired animals, and at least once weekly for shorthaired animals.

18. Never give pets any medicine without a vet's approval. Many human drugs like Advil and Tylenol are deadly poisons to pets.

19. Don't let pets eat string, yarn or rubber bands; they can cause intestinal blockage.

20. Keep your vet's office and emergency numbers handy

21. Learn First-Aid CPR and Choking Rescue for pets.

22. Volunteer at an animal shelter or a rescue group

23. Be alert when driving to avoid hitting animals.

24. Buy from companies that don't use animals for testing

25. Report abuse to the proper authorties.

26. Report injured dogs and cats you find to an animal shelter and injured wildlilfe to a wildlife rehabilitation center.

27. Pick up litter that might hurt animals.

28. Put up a bird feeder.

29. Never buy anything made from wild animals.

30. Leave all wild animals, including insects, in their natural homes.

31. Plant trees, shrubs and gardens in your back yard to attract birds and other wildlife feel welcome.

32. Pick up your dog's poop during walks.

33. Never kick, hit or spank a pet. Learn proper training techniques from a qualified trainer to teach your pet obedience.

Peaceful Monday

2010-05-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

It's really peaceful in our house this morning. It's quiet and it's already 9:00. Our kiddos plum wore themselves out over the weekend. Swimming , running , playing. Our oldest is off to school and Daddy is at work.

We are expecting rain all day. So Steve will probably end up at home sooner than later. We needed the rain though. The grass is green, the plants are growing big and strong...

I think that we will go do a few things. Join the YMCA. No joiner fees right now. Then, maybe the scholastic book sale. Everything is half off. We'll see. We also need dog food. I know mundane but o.k. with me.

Have a super blessed Monday!

What I am Starting Now

2010-05-10T06:08:00.001-07:00

Our pastor talked yesterday about finding out what type of person we are becoming. He said that "We are the one's that have to change our minds, with God's help, to become more positive and uplifting people." Then, he told us to ask someone close to us what kind of person we are becoming. I knew that without asking I am becoming a cynic. I am more prone now than ever to expect the worse instead of being optimistic like I used to be. I guess it's because over the last couple of years things have been so hard. But, those experiences should shape us and not harden us. They should make us more compassionate not bitter. What if we went through something so that we can minister down the road to someone who needs us and our experiences. Since God is the the God of yesterday, today and tomorrow, He can see exactly why he let's us go though that which we all go though. I could not endure some of the things I read about in my blog friends lives. God knew that. But, I am still here after weathering the storms of the last few years. He has blessed us so. Thus, starts my list. 1000 grateful things. So today and everyday that I think of it I will post my blessings. Maybe you'll come along too. It might just CHANGE OUR PERSPECTIVE. It is a beautiful world we live in. Turn off the news. Let the weather take care of itself. Let's find joy together.

1. My family all of them. Immediate and distant.

2. The house we live in, in a safe neighborhood and more.

3. For 3 healthy strong independent children.

4. A marriage that has lasted and is full of love. Even when heated up.

5. The view out of the window by my computer.

Now it's your turn....

Happy Monday!

Peter Pan - Your Mother and Mine (English) Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T05:54:00.000-07:00

Fun but Goofy Day

2010-05-06T13:16:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the Library and then to see "The Tooth Fairy." The library was great and the movie was super cute. It had rained really hard while we were in the movie. Plants had blown over and things were a mess in the back yard but we need the rain. Alice wanted to watch one of the movies from the library and I realized that GOOFY me had not taken off the protection covers after the self check out. So, back to the library tom. Maybe to the park after that....

Hee Hee :)

A Lot of Changes

2010-05-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

There are so many changes at the end of this year. We have left a Home School group that we have been with for (some member's 5 years.) , for others 3 years. We are making a switch back to being on our own. Our middle son will be playing football for the first time. Our youngest will be starting gymnastics and possibly dance, and our oldest will be a senior. We are looking for colleges for both our oldest and my husband. My husband has decided to pursue his masters in accounting. I am going to continue to home school, sell on Ebay and walk when I can. At the moment I am tired and weary from the year. The weather here on Florida is suddenly hot that it is snatching the wind out of me. Over all life is good. Just very very very busy!

Just a Question

2010-05-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

Has anyone else out there in blog land been getting strange comments from an unknown language? Please let me know. I am getting very concerned...

2010-05-01T07:35:00.001-07:00

Personalize a digital slideshow

Birthday Friends

2010-04-30T17:54:00.000-07:00

These are such great pictures of Birthday girlfriends. These two were born 2 days apart. They are the best of friends. Today they finger painted, exchanged gifts, had lunch, swam and ate fudge pops. It was a great birthday day!

Happy Birthday Alice & Lina!!!

Our Beautiful Alice Amelia

2010-04-27T18:33:00.000-07:00

Our sweet girl will be 4 tomorrow. I can hardly believe it. She is our big surprise with her big brothers being 13 and 9 when she was born. She is a light in the darkness. A smile when you want to frown. Energy when you have none. A budding artist, a story teller, a giggle producer and a fashion queen. We love you our super wonderful magnificent gift from God. Our baby that completed out family. Happy Birthday Alice. We love you!

Friend Making Mondays

2010-04-26T17:29:00.000-07:00

List 5 things {aside from the obvious} that you love.

1. I love a full moon.

2. I love white wine.

3. I love shoes.

4. I love kissing.

5. I love soft cool sheets.

These are just some of the things I love.

Container Gardening

2010-04-23T07:46:00.000-07:00

Container Garden

Lemon Tree (I nursed this one back to health)

It now has over a dozen small lemons.

Rosemary

Tomatoes 4 Different Kinds

Oregano

Lemon and regular Basil

I am so excited about this little garden. For those that know me they will tell you I am NOT a dirt person. So this is just perfect. I cannot wait for the fruit to be ready. We are already using the herbs. We water them and pray over them every morning.

Happy Planting......

Beautiful Feet

2010-04-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

I was watering my container garden this afternoon, (pictures and story on that tom.) and I had some thoughts. I had not gone barefoot since last fall. We live in Florida and I get really hot if anything is on my feet during the summer. But, I decided after seeing my friends beautiful uncalloused feet, because she always wear shoes,that I'd give it a try. Plus, I managed to get a pretty severe case of planter's faciatis. (It's the shortening of the ligament between the ball of the foot and the heel.) I got that from standing barefoot on my tile floors while cooking and cleaning. So anyway, I've had a successful winter because it was VERY cold here in Florida until about 2 weeks ago. BUT today I could not stand it any longer. I went barefoot by a pool we visited and today in the backyard by the garden. (I realized that I need to paint my toenails very badly.) After I came inside I noticed that my feet were VERY dirty. I decided to wash them in my bathroom sink. I hoisted my first foot up there and then the second and smiled as a strange clean feeling overcame me. It may be a small thing but I was reminded of something I hadn't thought about in a long time.

GOD is like this! He lets us get dirty. He allows to walk around with dirty feet. We may try to wear shoes all of the time to cover our sin, but He is never fooled. He waits for us to go to Him to wash our feet and get clean again. I want that! I want that every day. I am going to let Him wash my sin away.

Everyday!

Friend Making Mondays

2010-04-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

Amber over at {amberfilkins.blogspot.com} asked

What is your perfect date?

Mine is a weekend at The Night Swan Bed & Breakfast New Smyrna Beach, Florida, Sinner at The Garlic, Frech Treats from Mon Delice Bakery with the beach planned for the morning.
PERFECT!

Watermark - Bath, NY 2-15-2005 "Who Am I"

2010-04-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

Been Gone a While

2010-04-16T05:57:00.000-07:00

Hello- The last couple of weeks have been busy and exausting in a lot of ways. We have been fighting fleas for about a month now. I have done about 60 loads of laundry and after the 2nd round with the exterminator we are on our way to a flea free home.

These are the things that DO NOT WORK:

1. Borax it does absolutely nothing!

2. Certain tree branches or leaves. NOTHING

3. Advantage and Frontline on pets. The fleas are now immune....:(

Things that DO WORK to fight fleas.

1. Extermination. It's the only way!!!

2. Feeding your pets garlic. After 1 day the fleas were gone! No lie!

3. Vacuuming after the exterminator to eliminate eggs and dead fleas. YUCKY!

4. Keeping everything flea free to begin with. We live in Florida. It's NOT easy!

So that's the lowdown. I HATE FLEAS!!!

But, we are on our way to better days.

New Smyrna Beach Cam

2010-04-10T10:05:00.001-07:00

http://www.volusia.org/beach/smyrna.htm

2010-04-07T06:07:00.000-07:00

In Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

There is A LOT going on in our family right now. Not my house but my brother's. It's almost too much to take in. So, I am relying on God's word for comfort. Have a great wednesday!

2010-04-04T05:38:00.000-07:00

HE IS RISEN!!! JESUS CHRIST IS RISEN TODAY!!!

2010-04-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

There is a peace in this household, a rhythm, a harmony that has settled over this place that I am very willing to become accustom to and joyful of. I think that perhaps it should stay while and sip a glass of lemonade and gaze at the clear blue sky. All is good in this household. And I , I am truely grateful.

2010-04-02T06:23:00.000-07:00

Vegetable Garden

2010-03-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

We went yesterday to buy vegetables to start our 1st container garden. I cannot wait. We bought 2 kinds of tomatos, green peppers, rosemary, sage and , lemon sage. I am really looking forward to the bounty. Plus, we visited the butterfly garden. It was a nice Sunday.

The Zoo

2010-03-27T18:54:00.000-07:00

GREAT DAY AT THE ZOO.

The weather was perfect.

The Giraffe was the most incredible animal I have ever seen.

Off To The Zoo

2010-03-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

We are off to the Brevard zoo. Have a great day. It is a beautiful day here. Toodles.....

Changing Up My Blog

2010-03-26T07:10:00.000-07:00

I would like to change up my blog a bit. I want and need it to be a positive place that I can come to. So no more politics and no more negativity unless something really terrible is happening. Like family issues. I am just tired of hearing mysefl complain and maybe if I alter my focus to the positive I will change. So by the end of today I will post positive reflections part 1. Hope you'll tune in.

Government

2010-03-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

O.K. so we all seem to hate the government and all they are doing. Are we all willing to go lobby? Are we all voting when we have the chance? Are we all writing our congressmen and or women and senators to tell them how much we hate them and what they are doing? Are WE all doing all we can on a local level??? If not then shame on all of us!!!

Will Young "Leave right Now"

2010-03-19T14:50:00.001-07:00

5QF

2010-03-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

Another 5QF!

It's time for another Five Question Friday! Thanks to Mama M. for hosting! Hop on over and play along, won't you? What? You have something better to do? :)

1. Have you ever had a celeb sighting?
Yes I have seen a few. Met quite a few Christian artists, saw Frank Sinatra on our one trip to New York. He was getting into his limo. Met Mrs. Bush and was aske by President Bush to go jogging. It's a long story. A few other's but I am drawing a blank at the moment.

2. What temperature do you keep your house?

I would love to keep it at 65 all of the time. In the winter, expecially this one, that's been easy. But, in the Florida heat we don't turn it below 78. It just costs too much.

3. Do you notice dust at other people’s homes?

I only notice dust if it's been there forever. So not normally. I do notice exteme clutter. But, no one I know is like this.

4. What's the worst job you ever had?

This is going to sound rediculous because I have had around 22 jobs in my lifetime. But, I once quite a job because I HATED the uniform. No I wan't really that young. :(

5. What is your most sentimental possession?

I would have to say our pictures. There is nothing better to tell the story of a life.

Marriage

2010-03-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

Marriage is made in heaven. But, so is thunder and lightening...